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| Essential Info for Singapore |
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Safety: Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world, and instances of pick pocketing or theft are rare. An effective law enforcement system (supported by some draconian disobedience laws) ensures that everyone keeps in line. In fact, there are many misdemeanors you could be fined for here. Drivers are careful and there are few dangers or negligences to be wary of. When to go: although Singapore has uniform weather year-round, the best times to visit are between June and August, when the rainfall is less, sea breezes pleasant and the humidity eases off. Generally, daily temperatures are always between 24°C and 31°C. During these months, the famous Singapore Grand Sale and Food Festival attract plenty of visitors annually. ATMs are found across the city and in MRT stations as well as at Changi International Airport, along with bureaux de change. Rates vary and some moneychangers even charge a small fee (about S$2 to S$3) in selected areas, hotels or at late night vendors. Many merchants, especially in Little India and Chinatown, also exchange money at surprisingly reasonable rates. Language: English is widely used, and is the lingua fraca for business. Not everyone on the island speaks English, but most do. The four official languages are English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil, with civic signs displayed in all four. Other Chinese languages such as Cantonese, Hokkien and Haka are also widely spoken among ethnic Chinese. There is plenty of local media in English, including the long-established Straits Times. Emergency: response is reliable and quick, supported by a good emergency service team.
Ambulance: 995
Police: 999
Recommended hospital:
Singapore General Hospital - Outram road (emergency number: +65 321 4311) Alternatively, there are quite a few internet cafes located in certain areas - usually where the budget and traveller hotels are situated. Typical business hours:
- Government departments: 08:30 to 16:30 (may vary slightly).
- Retail: 10:00 to 18:00 (up to 21:00 in malls), every day - some traditional shops close on Sundays, but not in Little India.
- Banking: 09:30 to 15:30, Monday to Friday (and until 11:30 on Saturdays).
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